Interactive Sports Apparel

ABSTRACT

An interactive sports apparel that includes a scannable code forming part of the apparel, and a server configured to simultaneously deliver static media content and streaming media content to content placeholders residing on a scanner that scans the code on the apparel. The static and streaming media each have content based on proximity of the scanner to the apparel, and a user profile associated with the scanner.

RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No.16/698,389, filed Nov. 27, 2019; which is a continuation of U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 16/133,687, filed on Jun. 17, 2018 titled“Interactive Sports Apparel”; which is a continuation of U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 15/608,847, filed on May 30, 2017 titled “Methodsand Systems for Connecting Physical Objects to Digital Communications”;which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/780,719,filed on Sep. 28, 2015 titled “Methods and Systems for ConnectingPhysical Objects to Digital Communications”; which claims priority fromPatent Cooperation Treaty Application No.: PCT/IB2014/060243, filed Mar.28, 2014, titled “Methods and Systems for Connecting Physical Objects toDigital Communications”; which claims the benefit of Australian PatentApplication No. 2013901094 filed Mar. 28, 2013, the entire contents ofeach being incorporated herein by reference.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates to articles, systems and processes forenabling a connection between physical objects and digital sources.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

On-line communications are in widespread and almost constant use withinmodern society. The use of various social media platforms, both forbroadcast and party specific messaging, has become a commonplace aspectof social and business interactions. Mobile communications platforms,and the widespread adoption of tablet computing, smartphones, andsimilar technologies have made the predictions of the convergence ofcommunications and computing technology a daily reality.

Some groups have sought to further integrate the digital on-lineenvironment into everyday activities and resources. For example, variousparties have proposed clothing which is pre-wired to connect variousdevices and provide power. Domestic appliances, such as washing machinesand microwave ovens, have been modified to include internet interfaces,screens and the like.

From the perspective of social media, groups exist to promote and shareinformation about physical places, objects and products. Individuals areable to create their own groups and permit like minded others to join.Some such groups are operated or at least moderated by the respectivebrand owner. However, while the communications and the group are about aproduct, they are not actually connected to the product.

Considerable discussion has occurred about the internet of things, whichcan be defined as the interaction of uniquely identifiable objects andtheir virtual representations in an Internet-like structure. Whilst thisconcept has been explored by various parties, no consistent structurehas emerged to facilitate interaction between physical objects andvirtual content.

It is an object of the present invention to provide a convenientinterface from a physical object to a corresponding on line presence orcommunication.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In a broad form, the present invention provides a unique code, forexample a QR code, on a physical product. The code is convenientlyreadable, for example by a smartphone or tablet, and connects the readerto a specific network address. A dynamically variable content isprovided at the network address. The content may be provided by theproduct vendor or manufacturer, by the purchaser, by other parties, or acombination thereof.

According to one aspect, the present invention provides a system adaptedto provide a connection from a physical object to a networkcommunication, including a physical item with an associated code, aportable computing device adapted to read the code, and being furtheradapted to connect to a network location, and a server associated withthe network location, wherein the code, when read by the computingdevice, defines a link to a network location, to which location thecomputing device is adapted to connect; the server including acommunication defined for the code, so that the communication isprovided to the computing device by the server.

According to another aspect, the present invention provides a method toprovide a connection from a physical object to a network communication,including: providing a physical item with an associated code, andreading the code with a user device, wherein when the code is read,connecting the user device to a defined network location associated withthe code, that network location defining a server including acommunication defined for the code, so that the communication isprovided to the user device by the server.

According to another aspect, the present invention provides a method, ina system including at least one physical object with an associated code,at least one portable computing device adapted to read the code andadapted to connect to a network location, and a server associated withthe network location, the method including at least the steps of:

(a) At a server, receiving a request from a portable device, the requestbeing generated by said code;

(b) determining whether the device is a member of one or more predefinedgroups;

(c) In response to the determination, providing a communication and/oraccess to material, wherein the content of the communication and/oraccess to material provided is conditional upon said determination.

It can therefore be appreciated that implementations of the presentinvention allow for a simple and direct interface from the product toassociated content. The content is not fixed, and may allow for specificexpressions or creations by the purchaser to be linked to the product,for example an item of clothing. This could be a link to a social mediaentry, or to more ephemeral content, such as images or video relevant toa specific event. Equally, the code may link to instructional material,promotions, act as an identifier, or perform a wide range of potentialfunctions. Because the code can operate as a unique identifier, andbecause the linkage is not to a fixed webpage but rather to variable,dynamic content, the range of possible uses, applications andinteractions with other on line facilities are is very wide.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Illustrative implementations of the present invention will not bedescribed with reference to the accompanying figures, in which:

FIG. 1 is a conceptual overview of one system to implement the presentinvention;

FIG. 2 is a flow chart illustrating connecting content in an implementthe present invention;

FIG. 3 is a view of a door including a QR code;

FIG. 4 is conceptual screen shot of an interface to control the doorbellresponses;

FIG. 5 is a conceptual screenshot of a possible message;

FIG. 6 is screenshot of a system to create and connect content;

FIG. 7 is a screen shot of one implementation of a control app forvarious coded items that are connected to a user;

FIG. 8 is a flow chart of an example creation process for creatingcontent to be associated with a code and an item;

FIG. 9 is a flow chart of a an update process corresponding to FIG. 8;

FIG. 10 is a flow chart illustrating a viewing process corresponding toFIG. 8;

FIG. 11 is a screen shot of a log in screen for a fashion coding app;

FIG. 12 is a screen shot similar to FIG. 11 showing social media logins;

FIG. 13 is a conceptual screen shot of an app to allow creation ofzingcodes according to an implementation of the present invention;

FIG. 14 a conceptual screen shot of an app to access fashion codingaccording to an implementation of the present invention;

FIG. 15 is a conceptual screen shot of the app of FIG. 14, illustratingplayback; and

FIG. 16 is conceptual screenshot of a sporting club related contentnetwork.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The present invention will be described mainly with reference to severalspecific implementations, and in relation to particular applications toproducts. It will be understood that the present invention is anenabling technology, adapted for implementation on many products, andthat the specific type of product may influence the types of content anduses for the present invention. Further, the implementation at thecontent, social media and network side may be variable and adapted tothe requirements and norms of that facility. The present invention isintended to encompass all such implementations.

The code to be applied or form part of the product could be anadditional feature, or in some cases may already be present. In oneimplementation, the code is a visual component, such as a 2 dimensionalbarcode, for example a QR code, or any other visual encoding ofsufficient complexity to produce a unique code. Any suitable form ofcode, capable of carrying sufficient data to produce the required URL orother address. Any kind of visual cryptographic technique could, inprinciple, be used, for example microdots. The code may be visible inother than visible light, for example in infrared or any suitable partof the electromagnetic spectrum. However, the code could be provided byan embedded RFID device, magnetically readable region, smartcard orsimilar type contact or contactless chip, near field RF identifier, orany other suitable hardware to deliver or display a code. It could inprinciple be acoustic. Any way in which the code can be produced, andread, is encompassed within this terminology.

The term ‘product’ is intended to encompass any kind of physicalproduct, for example clothing, designer goods, tools, electronics, carsand sporting goods. It could also encompass fixed locations, for examplean item attached to a building, as well as movable objects. The onlylimitation is that ability to physically carry, incorporate or displaythe required coding. The advantages of the present invention are moreapplicable to durable rather than consumable goods, however, the presentinvention could be applied to disposable and consumable goods.

The term ‘network’ is intended in its broadest sense. It includes publicand private networks, illustratively those applying TCP/IP protocolssuch as the internet, but not limited to such networks. They may belocal area networks (LANs), wide area networks (WANs). The physicalimplementation of such networks may be fixed, wireless, optical,satellite, mobile or any other suitable form.

The present invention may be conveniently implemented using a serverbased virtual facility, such as the facility operated by the applicantas FabZing. Details of the implementation of this system are provided inthe applicant's patent application Nos WO 20112041827 (U.S. 61/272,545)and U.S. provisional application No. 61/746,774 by J Frank Shaffer.These disclosures are hereby incorporated by reference. A suitableimplementation of a server based, user controlled multimedia messagingsystem is the FabZing system, which is available at www.fabzing.com andis commercially operated by the present assignee. Of course, any othersuitable system may be used to implement the invention.

FIG. 1 provides an overview of the arrangement which is contemplated.Server 92 provides the functional processing, including connection tostored information, account details, and the like required for thesystem to operate.

The network 80 includes one or more client processing systems and one ormore server processing systems. In this example, the client processingsystems include smartphone devices 82, 84, 86 and personal computers(PCs) 88, 90. The server processing systems include network servers 92and 94. The client and server processing systems 82, 84, 88, 90 and 94are connected via the internet 96 and the smartphone 86 is connected tothe PC 88.

The transfer of information and/or data over the network can be achievedusing wired communications means or wireless communications means. Theserver processing systems 92 and 94 can facilitate the transfer of databetween the network and one or more databases, such as database 93.

It will be appreciated that embodiments of the invention may be realisedover different networks, such as a MAN (metropolitan area network), WAN(wide area network) or LAN (local area network). Also, embodiments neednot take place over a network, and the method steps could occur entirelyon a client or server processing system.

It will be understood that the server used according to the presentinvention may be of conventional type. It may be a real server, or avirtual server distributed over several actual machines. The userinterface via the network can be using any device capable on theselected network, and which is able to read the code used according tothe implementation of the invention. In the case of a visual code suchas a QR code, this could be a conventional smartphone (e.g. iOS orAndroid based) with a camera, an app which can read and interpret a QRcode, and internet access via a cellular network or wireless networksuch as WiFi. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that such devicesare widely available, and so the network and user hardware aspects willnot be further described.

Functionally, the applicant's service (which may conveniently be basedon the internet, or ‘in the cloud’) allows a user to create rich mediacontent combining audio, text, graphics, images and video. Theelectronic documents created using the applicant's software, known asFABZings, incorporate multiple components to enable the provision ofrich, personalised, user defined content.

FIG. 2 shows a method for providing an electronic document (such as afabzing) to a user according to an embodiment of the invention. This maybe provided using a convenient web interface, for example from asmartphone. At step 130, the software enables the user to search forcontent in a library of content. The software then provides content forinsertion into the electronic document at step 132, for example bydownloading content and storing it in the memory of the smartphone 82.At step 134, the software inserts content into one or more contentplaceholders in response to a request by the user. For example, the usermay use a touch screen (or other input device 108) to select content tobe inserted. One or more pages of the electronic document are thendisplayed on the display screen of the reader at step 136 with thecontent inserted in the one or more content placeholders. The document,is then able to be stored on the remote server which is providing themedia content.

One example of the application of the present invention is to fashionitems, for example clothing, handbags, and shoes. A QR code may beincorporated into the item. In one form, the code may be a clear andobvious statement. It could be included only in a conspicuous way, in anon obvious place, for example inside a handbag, or in a clothing label.Alternatively, the QR code (or some other readable visual code) could beconcealed within or incorporated into the pattern or design of thearticle.

The QR code is preferably unique to the article, and a permanent part ofthe article. It is preferred that the code remain part of the item, andnot be (for example) merely on a swing tag or the like.

When the user reads the code, for example using a smartphone, the readeris directed to a FabZing server location. The FabZing server will dealdifferently with each code, and can deal with the user differently anddynamically. Hence, many different QR codes for individual items fromthe same manufacturer may be dealt with by the same server.

For example, on first contact, there may be a request to register theitem as associated with the purchaser. In this case, if the item isstolen or not genuine, the server will not progress the session, and mayfor example alert authorities, or at least advise the purchaser of this.

From the perspective of the purchaser, it allows them to verify that anitem is genuine. A false or copied QR code will not, for example, linkto the registration function with the vendor, as the vendor will eithernot have defined that specific unique code on the server(as it isfalse), or it will already be registered to someone else (because it isstolen or a copy QR code). From the perspective of the party who placedthe code—the brand owner, retailer or manufacturer (hereinaftercollectively vendor)—it creates an opportunity to develop a directrelationship with the purchaser. For example, the registration processmay be as simple as a connection to a social media account of thepurchaser. The brand owner then has a way to, for example, make specialoffers, offer free upgrades, invite purchasers to events, or promoterelated products.

It would be possible to include a requirement for a link, for examplefrom the retailer verifying purchase, prior to activation of the QR codeand association with a given purchaser.

Apart from the advantages to the vendor or the product owner, there aresubstantial advantages to implementing the present invention in this wayfor the purchaser. For example, they can verify that an item is genuine.In a preferred implementation, once they are ‘connected’ to the codeassociated with the item, they are able to add their own content to betriggered by the QR code. For example, the purchaser may be attending aparty with a theme, and pre-program video and audio content triggered onuser's smartphones if they read her code. The content, moreover, mayvary with who has read the code, so that friends (on Facebook® forexample) see one message, and strangers another.

Hence, this application of the present invention may be termed fashioncoding, as it allows for a stream of multimedia content to be generatedfrom an article of clothing, being content defined and controlled by thepurchaser. This turns static point of sale clothing purchases into anongoing real time communications platform. For non-branded items, forexample, the code would simply allow for registration and the connectionof the user's own content.

FIG. 11 is a screenshot of an illustrative sign in screen. The screenincludes buttons allowing the user to sign in, create a new fabZing, orsave a newly created FabZing.

As can be seen in FIG. 12, sign in can be completed using one of severalsocial media or other connections, as illustrated. It will beappreciated that a social media connected sign in is commonplace in webenabled software, and will not be described further.

FIG. 14 illustrated a home screen from fashion coding app. The user isable to activate a code from an item, sign in, select from definedcategories (eg handbags, evening wear, shoes), or visit the library ofconnected items and fabzings.

FIG. 15 illustrates the playback process, when a code is read and theuser wishes to view the associated content. The user can choose from avariety of playback settings, including shuffle, linear and range inthis example. Shuffle provides a randomized order, similar to a shuffleselection on a digital music player. Linear plays the content in aparticular order. Range allows for the user to set the range over whichthe playback is possible, for example only when scanned, or within someradius (as determined using the GPS or similar functionality of theuser's device).

The items of clothing become, in addition to their fashion function, amultimedia broadcasting channel from which the vendors can inform,entertain, market, and provide customer service in real-time atprecisely the moments when their clientele are wearing and interactingwith their products.

The code could be used to link to more utilitarian files, such aspresentations, written documents, or the like. This could, again, beconfined to specific parties who read the code, with an entirelydifferent message being provided to others (or no message at all). Thisis achieved by the scanning app querying the database for relationshipinformation such as purchasing patterns, followers, or friendship databetween the user and creator. An implementation of this is explained inmore detail below.

Particularly in relation to clothing and fashion items, a virtualwardrobe can be created, based upon the codes of the items which thepurchaser has connected to their social media account. This could be anapp associated with the social media system, or the smartphone. Thecodes are provided by the vendors, and so can have their dimensions,characteristics, fabrics, colors, etc readily accessible if required—allthe way to washing and care instructions. The purchaser can then consulttheir virtual wardrobe to decide what to wear, or submit it to aclothing selection app to allow it to suggest what and in whatcombination to wear to what event.

A related application is to use the same infrastructure to provide acode associated with other items. For example, a code on a power toolcould link initially to a registration process, which also collectsinformation for warranty purposes, and then offers multimedia content toassist in training, safe operation, etc. The user in turn couldassociate content of their choice, for example video and plans of aproject they propose to undertake. Similarly to the virtual wardrobe,the coding could support a ‘virtual toolbox’ which would allow allinstructional and warranty information to be automatically collected inone place. Details of specifications, operating requirements, etc arethen collated in a single place, together with user selected contentsuch as plans, projects, etc.

Another related application of the present invention is to items such ascollectable objects, artworks, limited editions, or memorabilia. Aunique code is attached to the respective item, which when read,provides details of the object. For example, on a collectible, the codemay link to details such as the provenance of the particular item (asthe code is unique), physical details, date of production, size ofseries, publically available links about the item, etc.

However, in accordance with the present invention, it may also connectto user generated material. There may be a community of collectors. Aforum and related links to other collectors and retailers may beprovided. The code can be linked into the collection catalogue of thepurchaser, similar to the virtual wardrobe discussed above.

This provides a mechanism for a prospective purchaser to check theownership and details of an object prior to purchase, using a mechanismwhich is relatively independent from the vendor. This providesadditional security against theft, fraud and counterfeits. In this case,an independent entity, for example an auction house or museum, couldmanage the content accessed via the code, to further enhance itsauthentication properties.

A further application of the present invention relates to the hire ofvehicles or other products. In this case, a unique code (such as a QRcode) is associated permanently with the vehicle, for example. In a hirecar, reading this code in a Smartphone or the like would allow the userto access the user manual, relevant maps, tourist information, etc. Bycombining with the GPS location information from the phone, theinformation could be relevant to the specific location. The informationcould include links to store, restaurants and attractions in the area.

The server accessed by the code could further permit the user to useaudio, for example tour guides, or an appropriate set of music tracks,stored using the system.

A similar application of the present invention is to taxis. The uniquecode would in this case identify the vehicle, which will assist insafety for the passenger, as they are then located in a particular taxi.The associated app in this case could, at the option of the passenger,keep as record of location, speed, etc for the trip. Similar tourist andattraction information to the hire car example could also be madeavailable. Information about charges, how to book a return taxi, andsimilar practical information, could be also available, optionally in aselected language for the customer.

In another application, the code could be associated with a new motorvehicle. The code may be used to access and provide manuals, serviceinformation, and allow the driver to upload experiences, comments, etcrelevant to his experience of the car. He may define in advance, forexample, an audio play list for the journey linked to the code. Itcreates a way for the vehicle vendor to create a community of owners, soas to enhance the experience of owning a particular vehicle, and toallow a marketing channel direct to the owner.

The server can be arranged so that if anyone but the owner reads thecode, that a promotional presentation relating to the vehicle is played.Thus, the code in this case (or in any other suitable application) canoperate as a marketing tool even after the vehicle is long in themarket. It also provides an easy way to provide ongoing information, forexample about the maintenance or operation of the vehicle, to thedriver.

A further application of the present invention is to healthcare. In oneform, a unique code may be provided on a package of pharmaceuticals. Ifthe patient scans the code, detailed instructions can be provided, notjust for the patient but for any health care professional who inspectsit, for example in the possession of an unconscious patient. Scanningthe code as associated with a particular patient in a hospital couldform a further component of a system to ensure that the correctmedication is given to the correct patient, for example by reading thecode as part of a controlled medication dispensing process for nurses—ifthe wrong package is scanned, an alert is generated. A detailed note oftime of administration could also be inherently collected.

Further, the code could provide a link back to the manufacturer for thepatient. Updated information, adverse effects, questions aboutinteractions, or even a request for a repeat (if the code is linked tothe prescription) could be easily generated from a smartphone readingthe code.

It will be appreciated that the equipment, physical locations, and evenstaff could have codes, with appropriate links. For example, theequipment may link to instructions, troubleshooting, consumable orders,or simply to register that it has been used in conjunction with aparticular professional and a particular patient.

It will be understood that a complex media signal, with a video coupledwith written directions and warnings, and a detailed diagram, accessibleon a smartphone or similar device via the code, could be greatlybeneficial in many situations. It has the virtue that the informationcan be updated, augmented and corrected without the need to communicatechanges to the users individually—if indeed it is possible to identifythem.

A further application of the present invention relates to the use of acode on, for example, a child's uniform or other garment. In onerespect, this allows for a contact message or details to be madeavailable to a party who finds a lost item of clothing. For child safetyreasons, it may not be desired that the child's details as such areattached to the garment. However, upon the finder reading the code,either parent contact details, or a direct messaging screen, could beprovided to the party who located the garment. This allows for thepresent labels to be replaced with a more secure system which does notreveal the name of the child to a stranger.

This may also be useful if a child becomes lost at a public event ofshopping mall. The code will enable the parent to be contacted directly,either by a phone or other contact details provided when the code isread.

Another application of the present invention relates to an ability tocreate a personalised experience and relationship between a celebrityand a party who purchases a licensed item, which could be any suitableobject such as a garment, game, sporting equipment, or other item. Theitem included an integral code, which allows a connection to a dynamicwebsite provided by a particular celebrity, team or other individual.

Once the purchaser (or gift recipient) receives the item, they are ableto read the code, which takes them first to a registration page. Thismay require, for example, some proof of purchase in addition to merelyreading the code. Alternatively, the proof of purchase may becommunicated via the merchant.

The purchaser then includes some personalisation details, for examplepreferred name, birthday, favourite songs (for a performer), or otherdetails as appropriate. The registered user then has access (by scanningthe code) to special content only available to purchasers so connected.For example, a current season jersey for a baseball player may giveaccess to the team media, as well as for that player.

In one possible implementation, the player may upload personalcommentary, video of training sessions, details of appearances andspecials events, in a highly targeted way. The garment code may beactive for only one season, or for several, perhaps with reducing levelsof access. It may also operate as a ‘ticket’ to access controlled areas,reserved for fans who have bought team specific merchandise. Loyalty anddiscount systems may also interface to the code.

In turn, the fans could upload (potentially moderated by a suitableperson) their own content—personal messages from fans, questions, videoshot from the stands, and so forth. This then creates a potentialcommunity of interest for those who have bought the current jersey forthat player.

Further, upgrades or special experiences could be purchased, linked tothe specific, coded jersey and the customised information therein. Forexample, a data merge with customized textual inputs could very simplycreate a personalized cinematic experience for vast numbers of devotedfans. For example, a video clip is created by the New York Yankees withDerek Jeter running toward the camera, then sliding into third base andpopping up and saying, “Yo dude happy birthday, I got here as quick as Icould.” Then the text slides in wishing young Tommy a very happy7.sup.th birthday from Derek Jeter and the Yankees.

It will be apparent that similar arrangements could be used for othercelebrities, with appropriate modifications.

Individuals, creators, or brands can control playback of network contentin a variety of methodologies or settings such as in a particular orderor shuffle. The originator can alter settings to put in what they wish,or have it respond differently to different parties or both. There couldbe mood based content auto generated based on one's recent purchasingpatterns of music or film or internet viewing patterns along withpersonalized updates and edits based on geographic settings orbiographic data such as a personalized message on your birthday whenwearing a branded polo shirt.

In another related implementation feature, the code could effectivelylink to a broadcast of the game, restricted to those who have aregistered item. The game can effectively be played back from thejersey. In suitable sports, a camera associated with each player, forexample from a helmet, belt, or baseball hat, could provide customisedfeed which is only accessible via the code to registered owners. In thisway, the item owner can view the game from the specific perspective andviewpoint of their chosen player, again triggered by the code. Suchperspectives may be available at a game for all players on one or bothteams, so that the supporters can choose to arrange or edit the coverageto see what they want to see, or to have multiple video and audiostreams to watch simultaneously as the action moves.

In this way, each purchaser could in turn provide (should they choose)their own edited highlights for upload to the supporter community. Inone form, this video feed may be only available on the code linkednetwork or website and for manipulation there, and not able to be moregenerally downloaded (eg to social media). This would both enhance thevalue of membership of the community (by buying the requisite item), butalso drive traffic to the site, for promotion, advertising and similaradvantages to the site operator and the respective celebrity.

FIG. 16 illustrates an example sporting club content delivery,accessible only by purchasers of designated merchandise, who thenregister their code and obtain corresponding site access privileges.This may display news, special content (for example, video from trainingsessions), provide a chance to buy tickets, including special seatingonly available to this community, and a variety of related specialcontent. It will be apparent that also from a promotional and specialopportunity perspective, this community will represent the most ardentfans, and so those most likely to pay for further special events orprivileges.

It is possible to further enhance some implementations of the presentinvention by overlaying location based parameters. This can be using theGPS or similar facility on the smartphone. In this way, specificmessages, content, and invitations could be sent out. For example, in acelebrity related code and item, a message that the celebrity will bemaking an appearance in 2 hours at a location may only be sent to thoseusers who are proximate to the location.

In another aspect, the content itself may vary. In one example, video ofan evening dress worn by a celebrity to an event may be updated to onlyplay within a short distance, for example 300 m, of the celebrity tohelp draw a crowd to the function.

Location based parameters tied to your smartphone or a fixed site can beimplemented on the broadcast range of a shirt, doorbell, restaurantmenu, car and the like. In this manner someone could replay a ‘dinnerspecial’ saved on their phone from a prior visit to see what was onoffer for the current evening.

In another implementation, the unique code may be used to provide a gameto patrons at a bar, casino or other venue. The code may be worn by theattendant, for example a drinks waitress. The code provides a link to agame. This may vary in sophistication from a simple lottery or one spinrandom game, to a complex game which is played for some time on thepatron's smartphone. In one form, the back end may be associated with animplementation of server based gaming, in which local terminals merelydisplay screen information and commands/selections, and the game isoperated and controlled at the server from a regulatory and practicalperspective. In another implementation, the game may be similar to aconventional on line game. This aspect of the present invention isconcerned not with the particulars of game play, but with the mechanismby which the user is enable to access those features via their ownsmartphone, tablet or the like.

It will be appreciated that the particular nature of a platform whichruns on a particular user's device facilitates customisation at variouslevels. For example, any voluntary or other constraints on gambling canbe readily implemented, as the game is running on an identified user'sdevice. Different games, different return to player options, differentspecial features, and so forth can be provided because, in contrast to aconventional slot machine, the user is identified and can be connectedwith a user profile, loyalty information, and indeed credit informationif required.

The game may require a wager to placed, which could be collected by thewaitress, for example. Payment could equally be collected via a playercard, or other payment mechanism. The code could be concealed, forexample in the payment wallet often used for cash and credit cards, sothat it is only available when the account is paid. Alternatively, thegame could be always available to patrons.

In one form, the game could shuffle between different games or content,either controllably or randomly. In principle, any kind of electronicgambling game could be provided by this kind of mechanism—Instead of aslot machine pulling up random fruit icons, personalized cinematiccontent of short 15-30 second durations over any number of categoriessuch as comedy or a sports highlight could play with a winning or losingpayout announcement coming on at the conclusion of the video. In thisway customized content and playing options can evolve around thepersonal habits and tastes of a consumer. In addition, dynamicalgorithms could be developed based on prior playing times and habits toprolong or enhance a user's experience. The venue may provide no morethan cards or fixed codes attached to tables or walls which link to thegaming options, in a similar manner to that described above. Theimplementations of the present invention disclosed enable those skilledin the art to access a selected online address, at which conventional online games could be provided, in a simple implementation of this aspect.

It will be understood that an alternative form of this implementation iseither free, or requires a drink purchase (or similar) to participate. Aloyalty type game, with prizes of relatively low value such as free foodor drinks, small cash prizes, or the like could be offered to visitorsto the venue as a bonus for their custom.

A further application of the present invention may be to provide a codeof the type discussed at a site, as effectively a virtual doorbell. FIG.3 illustrates a notional door with a QR code associated. This could beat a front door as illustrated, in an office, outside an apartmentbuilding, or even at a remote gate or other location. The code can beapplied using a sticker.

Reading the code with a smartphone or the like will link to a pageselected by the occupier owner, or responsible person (for convenience,the owner). FIG. 6 illustrates an example interface allowing the messageto be created. Various tabs allow the selection of video, image,message, and animations, which are placed in a template as shown. Thesecomponents are essentially windows and can be moved around and re-sizedas required. The interface also allows the user to search for content onthe internet or select from existing material to create the multimediamessage.

Once the messages are created, the owner can select the material andcontent to be displayed from time to time, using a screen similar toFIG. 4. This is called a ‘doorbell library’—showing a range ofpre-created messages which the owner can choose to use. For example, thedefault response may be to call or message the owner's phone, or perhapsa number of phones, associated with the occupants, and advise thevisitor that ‘Mr X has been alerted, and will be here shortly’.Alternatively, the message may be selected to be something else, forexample, as shown in FIG. 5. In this case, the owner is indicating thatthey are asleep and do not wish to be disturbed.

The response could be specific for particular users, so that differentmessages are provided to friends (defined in an address book, or simplyvia social media) than to strangers. It may provide instructions as towho to contact if the house is unattended. The system can also readilykeep a log of all those who have read the code, and potentially triggeralarms, cameras, or the like of the person meets certain criteria.

In the event that the owners are away, the code could connect to afriend or neighbour's phone, who can then determine the response. Amessaging function could be readily built into the system to facilitatethis.

A feature of the particular implementation used is that user behaviorcan be readily monitored and logged. This operates firstly at the serverlevel, to provide information on who has viewed a specific multimediapresentation (as linked by the code), their location, link actions, aswell as how much of each segment of the multimedia presentation waswatched. The ability to measure precisely how much of a multimediapresentation was viewed allow close analysis of the activities of thosewho read the code and follow the link.

Stickers or other simple carriers of a QR code with associated contentcan also be provided, for example to provide membership of a group orauthorisation for access in some activity. For example, a promotionalsticker for a band may simply provide access to a website about the bandfor most users. For the registered owner exclusive musical content, suchas interviews or music downloads, may be made available. They may alsofacilitate, for example, user generated content to be added, and madeavailable to only selected groups.

Hence, in one context, a sticker may simply give access to the publicwebsite of a popular band for most people. For selected friends, usergenerated content, for example a humorous video or invitation, can bemade available.

Similar functions could be triggered from and kind of promotional item,for example tickets, programs, etc associated with a performance.Special offers, for example recordings of that performance at adiscounted price, could be available only to those who attend and linkthrough the associated code.

FIG. 7 is a screen shot of a control app which can be readily providedon a smartphone or the like. As the owner acquires or is associated withvarious items with an associated code, they are listed in the app, forthe owner to review and access. The app could sort the items bycategories, so that tools, clothing, etc are grouped together.

Each item has an entry, and clicking on the arrow will provide moredetails and a management screen, in a typical smartphone interface. Thisalso allows for the user to associate their chosen content with aparticular item, in whatever way they see fit.

It will be appreciated that the dynamic nature of the link addressed bythe code allows for many different aspects of conventional internet andnetwork facilities to be used in conjunction with the code inimplementations of the present invention. For example, a password and/orusername may be required to access information beyond a log in typescreen. This is not essential, but is an option which can be readilyprovided. Readers of the code who are indentified as friends on a socialmedia platform may receive different content, or those who do not meetthis criteria may receive more generic content or no content at all.

It will be appreciated that the present invention can be applied to awide range of purposes, and that the mode of operation, subject matter,and additional features provided will necessarily change theimplementation details. For example, any other suitable messaging systemcould be used to be linked via the coding, provided it provides thenecessary functionality.

FIG. 13 illustrates a home screen for a smartphone app for accessing andcreating zingcodes—i.e. visual codes to be associated with an item,location or the like. It allows the user to sign in, look at fabzings invarious categories (which they may choose to associate with a code),

FIG. 8 illustrates an example creation process for creating content tobe associated with a code and an item. It will be appreciated that in apreferred implementation, all these steps are assisted by a web basedworkflow tool to guide the creator through the process.

Each creator and each item are first assigned a unique QR code 10. Azingcode can be associated at the same time, or this can be generated atthe end of the creation process.

The creator then makes categories of users 11—for example, friends,family, groups, fans or the like, similar to what is well known andwidely implemented on social media sites. This list is saved to adatabase 13.

The creators then make a series of fabzings 12, as defined previously.Each is saved individually to the database 14. These are then formedinto a playlist of one or more for each category 15, and each playlistis similarly saved to the database. A fabzing from the appropriateplaylist is shown when a user from that category scans the QR code. Foreach playlist, optional additional factors may be added 15. For example,this may include a maximum number of views, location, how long the itemis available, or other parameters as discussed previously. These factorsare also saved to the database 16.

A default public playlist 19 is also created, for those not in any ofthe groups, and saved to the database.

The creator then requests the allocation of a zingcode 21 representingthe url for which he has been creating. The zingcode is generated as aconventionally coded QR code 22, and returned as an image to the creator23. The creator can then distribute the QR code as appropriate 24, forany of the applications discussed above.

In parallel, the system allows for real time edits and updates to bemade 25, and for engagement analytics to be generated, using theconventional components of the Fab Zing system.

The creator is enabled to update the content. FIG. 9 illustrates thisprocess. To commence, the creator may either scan the QR code 30, usingthe zingcode app 31, which takes the user directly into theadministration section. Alternatively, the creator may log in via theURL using a browser 32, and log in their allocated password to theadministration section 33.

This facility permits the owner to make a variety of modifications,including modifying the existing playlist, add new FabZings 34, updateplaying factors and groups, and in general edit the media behind the QRcode 35. The changes are then saved to the database 35, 37. The updatedcontent is then immediately available, and the new rules and contentwill be displayed thereafter when the code is read 38.

FIG. 10 illustrates the process which operates when the code is to beviewed. The viewer scans the code 40, illustratively with theirsmartphone, but potentially with any fixed or mobile device that canread the code. The smartphone needs to have loaded, in thisimplementation, the corresponding ZingCode App. It will be appreciatedthat implementations without this requirement are possible, however, amechanism to control and enforce the playlist restrictions and controlis required.

In an important distinction relative to conventional arrangements, inwhich a code simply links to a URL, the material returned depends uponthe status (and potentially other factors) of the user reading the code.A general member of the public may receive an entirely different mediapresentation than a friend. The app, interacting with the remote serverhosting the database, retrieves the playlist associated with theZingCode 41. The app, in cooperation with the remote server, determineswhich if any additional playback factors are fulfilled, 42 and the orderof their priority, in order to select the playlist to be provided. Theapp also checks is the player is in one of the special categoriesdefined by the code owner. The playlist for that category is thenplayed. The default playlist, if no other criteria are fulfilled, is thepublic playlist 46. Only at that stage is the corresponding contentdownloaded (or made available for viewing by) the remote device.

Similarly, if the code is read using a conventional QR reader, then thepublic playlist is provided.

If no categories are satisfied, the public playlist (which may be empty)is returned. In some cases, if multiple factors are made out, a choicecould be provided to the viewer.

This process is used both by the manufacturer of the products, althoughthis may be done on a much broader scale, as well as by an individualadding content to a unique QR code supplied by a manufacturer.

What is claimed is:
 1. An interactive sports apparel system, comprising:an article of sports apparel having a scannable code forming part of theapparel; and a server configured to simultaneously deliver static mediacontent and streaming media content to respective content placeholdersresiding on a scanner that scans the code on said apparel, the staticmedia and the streaming media each having content that is determinedbased on: a proximity of the scanner to said apparel; and a user profileassociated with the scanner.
 2. The interactive sports apparel of claim1, wherein the streaming media is a video.
 3. The interactive sportsapparel of claim 1, wherein the streaming media is a training video. 4.The interactive sports apparel of claim 1, wherein the streaming mediais a video taken from a wearer of said apparel.
 5. The interactivesports apparel of claim 1, wherein the streaming media plays only whenthe scanner is within a predetermined distance of said apparel.
 6. Theinteractive sports apparel of claim 1, wherein said apparel is a shirt.7. The interactive sports apparel of claim 1, wherein said code is a QRcode.
 8. The interactive sports apparel of claim 1, wherein said serveris configured to deliver the static media and the streaming media basedon a GPS location of the scanner.
 9. The interactive sports apparel ofclaim 1, wherein said scannable code on said apparel is only active fora predetermined time.
 10. A method for dynamically delivering streamingmedia content and static media content to a user, comprising: receivinga scan code identification at a server, the scan code identificationbeing associated with a scannable graphic code forming part of anarticle of sports apparel; receiving, at the server, location data of ascanner; and delivering streaming media content and static media contentto the scanner based on: proximity of the scanner to the sports apparelhaving the scannable graphic code; and a user profile associated withthe scanner.
 11. The method of claim 10, wherein the streaming media isvideo.
 12. The method of claim 10, wherein the streaming media is atraining video.
 13. The method of claim 10, further comprising receivingvideo from a wearer of the sports apparel and delivering the video fromthe wearer of the sports apparel to the scanner.
 14. The method of claim10, wherein the streaming media is only delivered when the scanner iswithin a predetermined distance to the scanner.
 15. The method of claim10, wherein the sports apparel is a shirt.
 16. The method of claim 10,wherein the scannable graphic code is a QR code.
 17. The method of claim10, wherein the streaming media is delivered to the scanner based on aGPS location of the scanner.
 18. The method of claim 10, wherein thescannable graphic code is active only for a predetermined time.